The best Samsung Galaxy S9/S9+ cases: from thin to rugged

The Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ are two sleek-looking phones, no two ways about it. With their curved screens and almost all-glass designs, it's hard not to admire the looks of Samsung's latest flagship duo. However, it's also hard not to worry about their well-being in the long run. That's why you need a case for your new Galaxy phone. Be it a slim, barely-there shell, or a heavy-duty rugged case, you need some protection.

Although the glass backs of the phones are somewhat resistant to scratches, a couple of months of sliding on random surfaces and jumbling around your pocket with who knows what else inside, will definitely result in unpleasant abrasions. And you don't want that. That's why we made this list of the best cases available for the Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+. We've divided the cases into three categories — thin & light, regular, and rugged — so that you can easily find something that suits your needs!

Thin & light Galaxy S9/S9+ cases

Spigen Case AirSkin

Spigen Case AirSkin for the Galaxy S9/S9+

Spigen Case AirSkin for the Galaxy S9/S9+

Spigen's AirSkin lineup of cases for the Galaxy S9 and S9+ offers ultra-thin protection. And we do mean ultra thin. If you want to feel like you don't have a case on, that's the one for you. It's made out of polypropylene and is scratch resistant, which is enough to protect your phone in normal use, just don't expect it to save your hide if you drop the phone from the 2nd floor. Since the case is so thin, the volume rocker, power and Bixby buttons all have their own precisely made cuts and are easy to press. Another upside of it being so thin is that fingerprint gestures are also effortless to perform, since there's not much in the way of a lip around the scanner to obstruct swiping.

CaseMate Barely There

CaseMate Barely There case for the Galaxy S9/S9+

CaseMate Barely There case for the Galaxy S9/S9+

The CaseMate Barely There feels, as the name suggests, like it's barely there. It's made out of polycarbonate and is a good choice if you want to retain that glossy look that the Galaxy S9 and S9+ have. Although it's see-through, the CaseMate Barely There still has a subtle grid texture that goes well with the overall design. There are larger cutouts for the side buttons, which makes access to them effortless.

Regular Galaxy S9/S9+ cases

Samsung Alcantara case

Samsung Galaxy S9 Alcantara case

Samsung Galaxy S9 Alcantara case

Okay, so this isn't the thinnest case on this list, but it manages to walk a fine line between lightweight and bulky. It is sturdy enough to offer moderate protection for your Galaxy S9 or S9+, with an obvious lip when viewed up front, but at the same time, it is far, far away from what we like to refer as "brick" cases. It also looks cool and unique in it's fabric-like appearance. Alcantara is a brand of synthetic fabric, similar to suede in texture and appearance, but more durable and resistant to stains or water than its natural counterpart. Because of these properties, it is not uncommon to see Alcantara covering the interior of premium sports cars. Or the backs of Samsung Galaxy devices. Unfortunately, the official Samsung Alcantara case is not available yet, as of writing this article, but should hit Samsung's online accessories shop and affiliates soon enough. We will make sure to update this list when that happens.

Since the Galaxy S9 and S9+ were only recently unveiled by Samsung, and are yet to hit the market, the number of quality, thin cases for the pair is still limited. However, as more case manufacturers release products for the new Galaxies, we will be updating our list with more information on thin and lightweight solutions to protect the phones.

Olixar FlexiShield

Olixar FlexiShield Gel Case for the Galaxy S9/S9+

Olixar FlexiShield Gel Case for the Galaxy S9/S9+

The Olixar FlexiShield is a nice mould that fits the Galaxy S9/S9+ like a glove. It's thin enough not to be obtrusive, but sturdy enough to protect the back of your phone from waist-high falls. The FlexiShield gel cases are available in three colors—black, blue, and purple—but best of all, they are just $7.99! If you're looking for some light protection on the cheap, it doesn't get better than this.

Rugged Galaxy S9/S9+ cases

UAG Monarch

UAG Monarch for the Galaxy S9/S9+

UAG Monarch for the Galaxy S9/S9+

Comprised of five layers of protective materials, this case from UAG's premium Monarch line provides more than ample protection for the new Galaxies. It has that unique UAG armor frame on the back, surrounded by thick rubber padding for shock absorption, partially hiding beneath a layer of top grain leather. Finally, there is a polycarbonate shear plate for protection from larger impacts. Everything is securely held together by four large, metal torx screws that also look pretty cool.

Spigen Rugged Armor Urban

Spigen Rugged Armor Urban for the Galaxy S9/S9+

Spigen Rugged Armor Urban for the Galaxy S9/S9+

A case that strikes an almost perfect balance between rugged and stylish, Spigen’s Rugged Armor Urban shell for the Galaxy S9 and S9+ offers single layer protection with a premium look and at an affordable price. This rigid wrapper sports a dual-tone back with a carbon-fibre-textured bottom half and a matte TPU finish around the camera and fingerprint scanner. It has raised edges around the screen, so even if you like leaving your phone face-down, it'll be protected from small debris. The Spigen Rugged Armor also offers Mill-Grade protection implementing Spigen’s Air Cushion technology in all four corners for superior shock absorption.

Otterbox Defender

The Otterbox Defender cases for the Galaxy S9 and S9+ are some heavy-duty stuff. If you're looking for a case that will withstand a massive beating, and don't mind the necessary bulk to achieve this, then look no further than the Defender. This lineup of cases offers 2-layer protection with thick rubber padding and a plastic shell. The softer layer absorbs shocks, while the robust outer shell does the dirty work of protecting against the actual impacts. The Otterbox Defender also comes with a belt clip for fans of extreme mountain climbing.

Dude, thank you! I stand behind Tech21 cases. Had one on my Note 7 for 2 months, dropped on concrete, not a scratch. Had one on my S7 Edge that I had to get due to the Note 7 Fiasco, dropped on concrete, tile, wooden floor & marble....still not a scratch. Currently rocking one on my Note 8 & yet again, not a scratch. And I never use a screen protector so that says a lot about these cases.

No doubt! I've dropped mine in places where other cases would show signs of scratches or possible internal damage. My Note8 is not harmed and the case looks prestige still. No screen protector here either haha, Evo Tactical is too good. #Shouldbeonthelist

I'm not worried about the phone itself, I'm just worried about the screen. The tech21 does not look very rugged to me, no rubber anywhere. OtterBox defender is still my go to. I just want a screen cover that will stay on. And it has a holster. Why would you put your phone in your pocket? That's where alot of damage is done

The Spigen Case AirSkin is actually quite a decent looking case. I usually dislike cases, as they usually completely ruin the looks and feel of a phone, but tthe Spigen Case AirSkin actually seems to add sufficient protection while still remaining within an acceptable size.

clayco hera series is the best. i broke my s7 edge screen twice, 1 from Spigen Case Rugged Armor, the second is from Otterbox Symmetry Series. and both doesn't protect the edge. that the biggest problem. don't get me wrong, both case are good and my s7e survive many drop but they just doesn't protect the edge.

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